Platycoryne micrantha Summerh. - Description
Platycoryne micrantha Summerh. is a species of the family Orchidaceae, which is commonly known as "Flat-spurred Orchid" or "White-ribbon Orchid". This plant is native to tropical Africa, specifically Ethiopia, Kenya, Tanzania, and Zambia. The scientific name Platycoryne comes from the Greek words "platys", which means flat, and "koryne", which means spur, referring to the shape of the flower.
General appearance
Platycoryne micrantha Summerh. is a small, terrestrial orchid that grows up to 30 cm tall. It has thin stems with pointed leaves that grow up to 4 cm long. The flowers of this plant are arranged in a raceme and are usually white with purple markings. The flower is about 2 cm long and 1 cm wide, with three sepals and three petals that are fused to form a tube-like structure. There is a single, elongated lip that is flat and has a spur that is about 2.5 cm long. The plant blooms from February to April.
Uses
Platycoryne micrantha Summerh. is primarily grown for ornamental purposes. Its delicate and beautiful flowers make it a popular choice for gardens and for use in cut flower arrangements. The plant serves as a source of food for nectar-feeding insects. It is also used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments like coughs, skin infections, and diarrhea.
Light Requirements:
Platycoryne micrantha Summerh. requires a high amount of light to thrive. The ideal lighting condition for this plant is bright, indirect sunlight. Direct sunlight can scorch its leaves. Therefore, it is recommended to place the plant in a partially shaded area with filtered light.
Temperature Requirements:
Platycoryne micrantha Summerh. prefers warm temperatures ranging between 20-30°C (68-86°F). The plant can tolerate fluctuations in temperature but cannot withstand extreme cold. Therefore, it is essential to avoid placing the plant in areas where the temperature drops below 15°C (59°F).
Soil Requirements:
The plant prefers moist, well-drained soil with a pH level ranging from 5.5 to 6.5, and it is best to use a soil mix suitable for the growth of orchids. The soil should also have good drainage to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot. The addition of perlite or vermiculite to the soil mix can improve soil aeration and drainage.
Cultivation
Platycoryne micrantha Summerh. is a terrestrial orchid that naturally occurs in rocky areas and grasslands. To cultivate this plant, it is necessary to recreate its natural environment as much as possible. The orchid should be potted in coarse, well-draining soil, such as a mix of bark, perlite, and charcoal. The pot should be kept in a well-lit spot, but not in direct sunlight, as this can burn the plant.
Watering Needs
Platycoryne micrantha Summerh. needs to be watered regularly, but not excessively. The soil should be kept slightly damp, but not waterlogged. Overwatering can cause the roots to rot, so it is important to allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. It is recommended to water the plant in the morning, to allow excess water to evaporate throughout the day, reducing the risk of root rot.
Fertilization
Fertilization is an important part of cultivating Platycoryne micrantha Summerh. During the growing season, the orchid should be fertilized regularly using a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer, such as a 20-20-20 mix. It is important to dilute the fertilizer to half strength to prevent root burn. In winter, when the plant is dormant, no fertilizer is required.
Pruning
Pruning Platycoryne micrantha Summerh. is essential for maintaining healthy growth and ensuring regular flowering. The plant should be pruned after the flowering period, cutting back the flower stem to the base. Dead or yellowing leaves should also be removed as they appear. This will ensure that the plant puts its energy into new growth and flowering.
Propagation of Platycoryne micrantha Summerh.
Platycoryne micrantha Summerh. is an African terrestrial orchid that preferably grows in a moist, shaded area in the forest. It produces beautiful white and pink flowers, making it a popular choice among orchid enthusiasts.
Propagation Method 1: Division
Division is the easiest method to propagate Platycoryne micrantha. It involves separating a mature, healthy plant into several smaller ones, each having its own growth point. This method is best carried out during the growing season, when the new growth has just started.
To divide the plant, carefully remove it from the pot or substrate and gently separate the individual pseudobulbs. Each division should have at least two or three mature pseudobulbs and some roots. Plant the divisions in a separate pot or substrate and provide the proper care like the mature plant.
Propagation Method 2: Seed Propagation
Propagation of Platycoryne micrantha can also be done by seeds. However, this method is a bit more complicated and time-consuming compared to division. The seeds need to be fresh as they have a short viability period and should be sown immediately after harvest.
The seeds are very small and are best sown in a sterile, well-draining medium. Sow the seeds on the surface, cover the container with a plastic wrap and place it in a warm, shaded area that receives bright, indirect light. The seeds may take several weeks to germinate and should be kept moist, but avoid overwatering.
As the seedlings mature, they should be transplanted into separate pots, and the care should be similar to a mature plant until they form sufficient pseudobulbs for division.
By following either of these propagation methods, it is possible to propagate Platycoryne micrantha Summerh. and enjoy its beautiful flowers for years to come.
Disease Management
Platycoryne micrantha Summerh. is a hardy plant that typically does not suffer from many diseases. However, if the conditions are right for the pathogens, then it can be affected by various fungal and bacterial infections. Some common diseases that may affect this plant include:
- Leaf spots
- Crown rot
- Root rot
- Powdery mildew
In order to manage these diseases, it is essential to maintain proper cultural practices, including adequate spacing, proper irrigation, and proper fertilization. Additionally, it may be necessary to apply fungicides, bactericides, and other chemicals to control the diseases. It is important to read and follow the label instructions and precautions when using these chemicals.
Pest Management
Platycoryne micrantha Summerh. can be affected by various pests, including insects and mites. Some common pests that may attack this plant include:
- Thrips
- Spider mites
- Aphids
- Caterpillars
To manage these pests, it may be necessary to use insecticides and miticides. Again, it is essential to read and follow the label instructions and precautions when using these chemicals. Additionally, natural predators and biological control methods such as the use of beneficial insects may be effective in managing the pests. Handpicking and removing pests from the plant is also an effective method in managing insect infestations.
